Increased Antidepressant use and Fewer Suicides in Jamtland County, Sweden, After a Primary Care Educational Programme on the Treatment of Depression

Interactive seminars were conducted between 1995-2002 in Jamtland County, Sweden. For evaluation, suicide rates & annual sales of antidepressants were compared with national averages. Questionnaires were used for information about attitudes & prescribing habits. The suicide rate in Jamtland decreased to the same level as the national average. The use of antidepressants increased to the same level as the Swedish average. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were preferred. Suicide issues were considered to be most important in the management of depressed patients. Trends replicated the findings from the Gotland study. The educational programme will be conducted annually & could be a model for other regions. (23 refs.)